Salem, Oregon- Leaders from the Coalition of Oregon School Administrators (COSA), the Oregon Association of School Business Officials (OASBO), and district superintendents from Salem-Keizer and Umatilla joined together this week for a joint media briefing focused on Oregon’s economic outlook and its potential impact on K–12 schools.

While expressing gratitude for the historic investment in K–12 education made by Governor Tina Kotek and the Oregon Legislature earlier this year, education leaders shared a unified message: Oregon’s schools are stronger because of those investments, but looming state revenue declines and federal policy shifts (including HR-1) could create new fiscal challenges in the months ahead.

“Our message is not one of crisis — it’s one of planning,” said Dr. Krista Parent, Executive Director of COSA. “We’re urging state leaders to take time, look at every option, and use the tools Oregon voters created to protect classrooms. The Education Stability Fund exists for exactly this reason-we’re asking for a thoughtful conversation about how it can help stabilize schools if reductions become necessary.”

Leaders Emphasize Planning, Not Panic

The November 19 state revenue forecast will be one more piece of information to  help determine whether the Legislature must rebalance the current budget. Districts across Oregon are already in local budget planning cycles, and leaders emphasized that time and clarity are essential for responsible decision-making.

“The longer it takes to communicate what that target is, the more uncertainty we create for staff and families,” shared Andrea Castaneda, Superintendent of Salem-Keizer Public Schools. Teams need time to plan collaboratively and protect the programs students rely on.

Heidi Sipe, Superintendent of Umatilla School District, recalled the mid-year reductions of 2008–09, when Oregon faced a $146 million shortfall: “Quick, reactionary cuts led to decisions made in survival mode. When we were able to plan ahead the following year, it was still painful — but it was thoughtful, transparent, and centered on what mattered most: kids. That’s what we’re asking for again now.”

A Call for Partnership and Patience

OASBO Executive Director Jackie Olsen noted that Oregon’s 197 school districts operate in diverse contexts, and while some are stable, others are already facing difficult choices. “Staffing makes up 80 to 85 percent of most school budgets,” Olsen explained. “Even small reductions ripple quickly into classrooms. That’s why it’s so important to plan — not react.”

Together, education leaders reaffirmed their commitment to protecting student learning and school stability. As Oregon navigates economic uncertainty, they emphasized that thoughtful planning and partnership will ensure students remain at the core of every decision.